During the northbound direction of their journey, they frequently pass closer to the mainland.December through Mid April many channel crossings provide the opportunity to view gray whales. The boundary is the property line (marked by a fence line) between Prisoners Harbor and Valley Anchorage. The visitor center includes an orientation area that helps visitors plan a safe trip on the island and a variety of interactive exhibits that describe the island's tremendous biodiversity, rich cultural history, and current resource issues. Prisoners Harbor so that they can get the most out of their day. Looking for more local adventures? Id considerSmugglers Cove Trailstrenuous for a day hike due to the pace youre required to keep to make it back for the boat. Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island December 23, 2022; Tangerine Falls: The Sketchiest Santa Barbara Waterfall Hike December 23, 2022; Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip. Hi!! For visitors planning a multi-day or overnight trip, camping . At Scorpion, hiking to Montaon via Potato Road will give you the second most diversity in ecosystems, but it is a very long and strenuous hike, so Id recommend hiking Cavern Point Loop for the average visitor. Santa Cruz Island Camping There are two campgrounds on Santa Cruz Island; Scorpion Ranch campground and Del Norte campground. Maybe youll seek out endemic species, maybe youll explore the giant kelp forests, or maybe youll even walk where humans have thrived for over 10,000 years. Have updates, photos, alerts, or just want to leave a comment? You might find a few caves here, in contrast to the many striking caverns at Scorpion, but the draw here is the secluded beaches and protected inlets, where you most likely wont see anyone for hours. More than 600 plant species have been documented in ten different plant communities from marsh and grasslands to chaparral and pine forests. There should be guides from the Naturalists Corps to lead hikes on the Island Packers trips. This bird is much larger and brighter blue than its mainland relative. Travel time to Scorpion is a little over an hour and Prisoners Harbor, on direct route is about one and a half hours. 805-642-1393, Santa Cruz Island Hiking and Interpretive Guides, All Rights Reserved | Travel Master Proby, East End Landing Cove Anacapa Island Day Trip, Del Norte Campground | Prisoners Harbor SCI, Camping on Santa Cruz Island-Del Norte -Prisoners Harbor, Driving Directions | Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard, Anacapa Island Hiking Guide & Interpretive Trail Guide, Santa Cruz Island Hiking Guide & Interpretive Guide, Santa Rosa Hiking Guide & Interpretive Guides, San Miguel Island Hiking & Interpretive Trail Guides, Santa Barbara Island Hiking and Interpretive Trail Guides, History -Stories -Facts of California Islands, East End Landing Cove AI | K-12 Education, Wildlife & Whale Watching | K-12 Education, Anacapa Island (AI) Channel Islands National Park, Santa Cruz Island (SCI) Channel Islands National Park, Santa Rosa Island (SRI) Channel Islands National Park, San Miguel Island (SMI) Channel Islands National Park. The five islands comprising this national park are Santa Cruz, San Miguel, Anacapa, Santa Barbara, and Santa Rosa. Im Brittney. Prisoners is further away and it is meant for only serious well equipped hikers. Rain. 15. . The water temperature is about the same as the air temperature. Kids & dogs welcome! On days that the concessionaire boats run to Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor, guided hikes may be offered by national park volunteers or concessionaire naturalists. There are no shops or restaurants on the island. Template Created By ThemeXpose and heavily customized by Maple. Primitive camping is available at the Scorpion Canyon Campground (31 sites; $15 per night per site; reservations required). There was the remains of a metal pole sticking up like. If you arent up for a strenuous hike, thats okay. Browse by destination. However, be sure to book in advance because these tours sell out quick! You can hike as far as you like and turn around anytime because this trail continues all the way to Scorpion, 15 miles away. Browse forums; All. We motor across Chinese Harbor to Prisoners, staying on or outside the 20 fathom curve if we can't see shore, which keeps us clear of all obstructions. The road eventually ended leaving us on an honest to god faint hiking trail involving the occasional bouldery bit. 805-642-1393, Santa Cruz Island Hiking & Interpretive Guides, All Rights Reserved | Travel Master Proby, East End Landing Cove Anacapa Island Day Trip, Del Norte Campground | Prisoners Harbor SCI, Camping on Santa Cruz Island-Del Norte -Prisoners Harbor, Driving Directions | Channel Islands Harbor, Oxnard, Anacapa Island Hiking Guide & Interpretive Trail Guide, Santa Cruz Island Hiking Guide & Interpretive Guide, Santa Rosa Hiking Guide & Interpretive Guides, San Miguel Island Hiking & Interpretive Trail Guides, Santa Barbara Island Hiking and Interpretive Trail Guides, History -Stories -Facts of California Islands, East End Landing Cove AI | K-12 Education, Wildlife & Whale Watching | K-12 Education, Anacapa Island (AI) Channel Islands National Park, Santa Cruz Island (SCI) Channel Islands National Park, Santa Rosa Island (SRI) Channel Islands National Park, San Miguel Island (SMI) Channel Islands National Park. Oxnard, Ca 93035 Scorpion Cove vs. Fishing and collecting is allowed from land and from the pier with a license, and can be a relaxing and rewarding activity, as long as you follow all local fishing regulations. Transportation to Prisoners Harbor takes approximately 1.5-2.5 hours, depending on wildlife sightings and if the ferry stops at Scorpion first. Remember that it is illegal to directly or indirectly feed animals in the park. Montaon Ridge Loopis quite strenuous and long, but meanders along the highest ridge line on the east end of Santa Cruz Island. A small cooler with a single handle or a backpack will help to protect your food from the small animals and birds that populate the islands year-round. If you really just cannot decide between a day at Scorpion Cove vs. Your day is generally much quieter at Prisoners due to significantly less visitation, but for the same reason, there are usually only one or two park staff around on a busy day. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. 16 October 2022; Possession of a valid California state fishing license with an ocean enhancement stamp is required and all California Department of Fish and Game regulations apply.More Location & Hours 1901 Spinnaker Dr Get directions Edit business info You Might Also Consider Sponsored Under the Oaks Santa Barbara Currently booked through March of 2023. This hike is not a destination hike to Pelican Bay, but a guided hike through this pristine area along the Pelican Bay Trail. Santa Cruz Island is the perfect place for a one-day trip and short or long overnight camping trips. The harbor area is the border of the National Park and The Nature Conservancy Properties. Remember, you are kayaking in open ocean conditions. Tours depart to this area of the island daily, weather permitting. Lego 70815 - Der TOP-Favorit unserer Produkttester. If youve reached Cavern Point and would like to continue hiking for a bit longer, consider extending your hike toPotato Harbor Lookout. No fishing is allowed at Scorpion Anchorage since it is within a marine reserve. One option is a rocky beach called Tinker Beach and the next is the tide pools at Pelican Bay, just five minutes further up the trail (continue up the river bed). Fishing Cruising the California Channel Islands for Education, Recreation and Research Since 1968. 6. Availability The Adventure Tour meets on Santa Cruz Island daily at 10:30am and select days at 9:30am Tour Time (~4 hours) It is steeper with ups and downs but if you are in reasonable shape it is not a problem. CA I hope you love it as much as I do! The two most popular animals are the island fox and island scrub jay, though there are plenty of other animals to spot on both land and sea. Santa Cruz Island offers two primary landing sites which the vast majority of guests to the island visit. We could see Anacapa rising prominently off to the west as we dropped. It requires a signed waiver for access due to its location on private property (ask for one in the Island Packers office). Re: Scorpion cove vs Prisoner? How many hours should I give myself? This is the easiest island to get to, has the best weather, and offers the most recreational activities. Under The Oaks w/jacuzzi. Luckily, the boat ride is usually only two hours max depending on your destination, and visitors rarely feel sick on the ride home due to the favorable swell direction. A few more things to note about the camping situation on Santa Cruz Island: Scorpion campground is a large campground located about a half mile from the pier down a flat gravel and dirt path. With two campsites within the National Park, a one-way hike can be done from the middle of the island to the eastern end. Scorpion Rock to the east is really cool, as are the giant caverns of Cavern Point to the west. The final portion of trail to the crest of Montaon ridge is steeper up a rocky route but does not require use of your hands. For the authorized kayak guide and outfitting concession in the Scorpion Anchorage area on Santa Cruz Island visit: Channel Islands Adventure Company. Despite the unfortunate reality that I need to work to afford to live, and I cannot focus all my energy on hobbies, I do what I can when I can, and still find a way to have memorable adventures in new places on a budget. Youll find the sites beneath an old eucalyptus grove (the only shady campsite in the park). For those looking to cover more ground, there are a few more strenuous options for you to explore. Zoom in to see updated info. As a result, visitors often find themselves feeding the fish, which is perfectly acceptable on a boat. Of those five, the most popular island is Santa Cruz Island, the largest island off the California coast. Scorpion is home to the largest campground and highest consolidation of day hike options in comparison to all other stops and islands. Scorpion SCI to Prisoners SCI 10:15 AM. Santa Cruz Island does not have the stereotypical hazards like bears or bison, but the isolated island does have some things to watch out for. A satellite GPS device isnt a bad idea either. They are also quite intelligent and have learned that humans are not so intelligent, so they tend to hang out near picnic tables and campsites. Visitors to the island must take all their trash with them when they depart the island. February through April, the grasslands of Santa Cruz Island are green and the native flowers in bloom. To the extent that they make marmots look like ferocious beasts. A 31-site campground area begins one mile from the pier and is an easy flat walk. However, there are no lifeguards on the island. This rocky trail travels along coast bluffs, through groves of pine and oak trees and through multiple deep canyons, offering scenic views and an occasional endemic island fox. Hi- I will be visiting with 3 friends over Memorial Day weekend. However, there is no water at Prisoners Harbor so visitors must bring all their water with them. Four 4-man campsites are located 3.5 miles up the trail above the cove with beautiful overlooks. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure. Usually this is a prime location to see island foxes and Santa Cruz Island scrub jays. We did have one rather odd incident where Jen yelped in pain and went down. For available shuttle tickets, clickhere. The guides are fun and knowledgable about the island. Its about nourishment and learning. There is NO FRESH/Potable water at this area of the island. Ventura to Scorpion Cove SCI 9:00 AM. Ventura Seasickness always gets someone. This post has been removed at the author's request. All the locals and those who work on the Channel Islands will tell you some of the best views on Santa Cruz Island can be seen from the Pelican trail, which starts at Prisoners Harbor. The cove will also be closed to boats during. For even better views you can take a short detour to the highest point on the NPS-owned side of the island, which sits at 1,808 feet. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Ventura, Ca 93001 We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. The trail is along the sea on the way to Pelican Bay. Once on the water, there is no shortage of sea caves and kelp forest to explore in both directions. Fishing is allowed in this area with all required California Fish & Game licensing. You must bring all of your water for your stay, although you may stow extra water in the fox boxes by the pier for the next days activities to save weight. Whale Watching in Santa Barbara: A Complete Guide, Anacapa Island Weather and Birds: Best Time of Year to Visit, Best Views of Channel Islands National Park: Top 4 Vista Hikes, Rock Climbing in Malibu, California: A 3 Day Travel Guide, Tangerine Falls: The Sketchiest Santa Barbara Waterfall Hike, Rock Climbing in Ojai, California: A 3 Day Travel Guide, Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe Road Trip: 7 Day Eastern Sierra Route. Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island's north coast is also a great launching point. Youll probably spot some leopard sharks and bat rays close to shore. Visitors from across the globe travel to Santa Cruz Island to catch a glimpse of the island scrub jay. There is a lot of exploration possible here! The trail begins on a fire road leaving Prisoner's Harbor and rises above sea level, overlooking the northern coast of the island. The hike from Prisoners to Scorpion is about 16 miles. Shade is available. You can do day hikes at either location. Del Norte camp provides spectacular views of the coastline back toward Prisoners Harbor, and it is located within a copse of oak trees. The other campground is called Del Norte. I say first night because, if you remember, there isno water source at Del Norte Campground. Although you might come across a number of foxes during your day on the island, consider yourself lucky because the island fox almost went extinct back in the 1990s due indirect downstream effects of human use of DDT on the mainlanda good reminder that our decisions on the mainland have a great impact on these seemingly isolated island ecosystems. For those with very limited mobility, consider a walk through the lower and upper campground. This hike is definitely more challenging than Potato Harbor, but offers great views over the hilly bluffs and through Scorpion Canyon. There is no potable water available at Prisoners Harbor. Generally, the north shore is best during the northwest swells of winter/spring and the south shore is best during the south swells of summer/fall. Scorpion campground fills up quickly on weekends and during the warmer months, and has been getting more and more popular. There were signs at most junctions though they sometimes just indicated sometime generic like camp ground and an arrow. I get sea sick fairly easily. Hike the Pelican Trail. We shared a table with two volunteers who were out there releasing harbor seal pups and who shared amusing videos of the reluctant pups being unceremoniously deposited into the ocean. We are looking for a full day of hiking and scenic views. From millions of years of isolation, many distinctive plants and animal species have adapted to the islands unique environments. I 100% recommend this for devoted hikers. However, all surf spots are remote and are best accessed by private boat due to the island's rugged terrain and the hiking distance from the designated landing areas. Tinker Beachis a rocky little beach with relatively easy water access and an abundance of life along the rocky walls. For snorkeling and diving, the easiest kelp beds to access are the ones near the pier and those to the eastern end of of the bay. Prisoners Harbor apart. A variety of seabirds can be seen throughout the year (especially around Scorpion Rock), but most birders go to the island to see the endemic island scrub-jay-only found on Santa Cruz Island and no other place in the world. More 3 bedrooms. There are two main ferry stops on Santa Cruz Island: Scorpion Cove and Prisoners Harbor. Once your boat is on the island, your potential for exploration is limitless. There are not any trees along the trails. Obviously, the first option is going out on two separate day trips, but for the most devoted adventurers Id recommend camping overnight. 3 baths. 2021Outdoor Project. Sounds like taking a boat to Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz is a must. For those who take comfort in knowing there are others around, there are plenty of helpful Channel Islands National Park rangers, Channel Islands Naturalist Core volunteer naturalists, Island Packers staff, and Channel Islands Adventure Company kayak guides around to give you advice and answer questions, and there always options for guided hikes andguided kayak tours. This hike will wind you through the most ecosystem diversity in the shortest distance on Santa Cruz Island. Several locations on Santa Cruz Island offer good surfing. The submarine Scorpion ties up alongside tank landing ship Tallahatchie County outside Claywall Harbor, Naples, on April 10, 1968. In addition, there isnopotable water access, so you have to bring enough with you. Potable water is available in the campground area. Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island, Where to Go Hiking in Santa Barbara after Rain: Top 4 Trails, Weather is unpredictable and can often cause, There will most likely be park rangers at Scorpion, but. Along this road lie island manzanita, lichen-covered oaks, and the endemic Santa Cruz Island pine. Island foxes are often seen around the ranch and campground at Scorpion Anchorage. Intensity and duration of the bloom differs a bit each year due to varied rainfall and temperature.Many Channel crossings this time of year include Gray Whale sightings. It also has a large visitor center and multiple potable water spigots in the campgrounds. The fox encounters at Prisoners Harbor are more organic (and often more rewarding when you come across a fox hunting on trail), but more rare, though many days I will see a fox searching the picnic tables there as well. My SO and I are hoping to hike some of the Pelican trail and kayak after, all in a day trip. There are usually guided hike options, but are never guided kayak options. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. You can access the waters easily from the beach, campsites are nearby, and sea cliffs and caves scallop the coastline. Here, you are most likely to catch halibut, calico bass, and barracuda, as well as collect mussels, urchins, and scallops. Scorpion is the one most people go to on account of the fact it's the biggest. This moderate to strenuous 3.5-mile hike from Prisoners Harbor travels through island oak woodlands and coastal sage scrub plant communities. The next moderate hiking option is the Del Norte Trail, which eventually leads to Del Norte Campground and onward to Scorpion Cove. There are 25 standard sites and 6 group sites. A population of invasive feral pigs ended up on the island which attracted golden eagles who in turn started to hunt the foxes. Otherwise, plan to rent a kayak in Ventura. First of all, this 15 mile journey is not a day hike unless you are a devoted trail runner. Santa Cruz Island is the largest of all the Channel Islands (and California!) Pelican Bayitself is often almost as clear as a swimming pool with fish and urchins covering the steep rocky ledges. A major factor in choosing Scorpion Cove vs. The campground was large but had a pleasant vibe to it with the exception of what sounded like a group of college guys a few sites over. He then decided to leave Gotham for a while after having a parent's association, and later the police, on his case (which resulted in Gordon becoming alcoholic and cheating on his wife) and had to shift his focus on the countryside, spending most of his time in scouts camps, wearing a scout chief uniform over his Batsuit, to cover his identity as the Batman. The old bones are creaking as we speak. A narrow canyon leading inland from the beach contains a ranch house used by a party of shepherds. If you dont own one, dont worry. Several locations on Santa Cruz Island offer good surfing. 805-642-1393, 3550 Harbor Blvd Usually, this hike is less crowded than the others due to the increased difficulty. Hiking W swell 6 ft at 13 seconds. In addition, some plants like gumplant, buckwheat, poppies, and verbena continue to bloom during the summer. I much prefer the half of the loop that connects Montaon to Potato Harbor Trail due to the nice trail conditions and beautiful views west over Santa Cruz Island towards Prisoners Harbor. Trips are either to Scorpion Anchorage or Prisoners Harbor. Has anyone else had a problem with sea sickness on this boat? It extends from Scorpion Rock (to the east of Scorpion Cove) to Potato Harbor (to the west of Scorpion Cove). Get quick answers from Island Packers staff and past visitors. The snorkeling in Scorpion Cove is incredible. Scorpion Bay is a calm placid little cove in the center of the north side of Santa Cruz Island, crescent shaped and large enough for a man-of-war to swing around in. Its about more than standing on the mountain top. If you arent looking to go full backpacker mode, there is another option to explore both stops on Santa Cruz Island. Scorpion rock is pretty far, but devoted snorkelers can make it on a nice day. There are no other visitor centers on the island. Watch this Topic. For the most diversity in plant species, Id recommend hiking the Pelican Trail at Prisoners Harbor, especially between March and June when flowers are in full bloom. You may cross over a very small stream, or two, in the first couple of miles, but don't count on there being water there unless it's rained recently, and there is nothing after that. Prisoners Harbor is much less popular than Scorpion Cove, so activities there take a bit more planning. Cruising the California Channel Islands for Education, Recreation and Research Since 1968. At that point, its probably time to turn around since the trail work isnt quite complete yet. The transportation to Scorpion Cove takes approximately 1-1.5 hours from Ventura Harbor depending on sea conditions and wildlife sightings. Kayaking here is considered open ocean conditions. Prisoners Harbor day trip visitors can participate in a moderately strenuous hike along the Pelican Bay Trail with an Island Packer naturalist. Gotta get in better shape! Tidepooling at Scorpion Anchorage and Prisoners Harbor is limited. You can view the endemic Santa Cruz Island Scrub Jay year-round: an easy stroll up the dirt road to the old stream bed at Prisoners Harbor or a rugged hike up Scorpion Canyon should provide a viewing opportunity year-round. Scorpion Anchorage on NPS property, lies on the east end of the island, and Prisoners Harbor to the west, at the border of National Park and The Nature Conservancy property. Since there are no services on the islands, there are no remedies for poor planning once you have arrived. 2.5 miles one way For the more adventurous, this uphill climb will leave you breathless with awe at the incredible panoramic view. Water, picnic table, food storage box, and pit toilet are provided. The campground is broken into two sections with most of the regular sites closer to the pier and the group sites in the back. TheEagle Ridge Trailis currently asecret trail! The Del Norte Trail soon joins with Navy Road, a fire road traveling along the central ridge of the island. Address 1691 Spinaker Dr Ventura, CA 93001 Phone (805) 658-5730 Park Name Channel Islands National Park Owner National Park Other Names Scorpion Ranch Activities The Island Fox is only about the size of a house cat and due to the fact they haven't traditionally had any predators they are active during the day. While visitors may explore the national park property on Santa Cruz Island, no hiking is allowed beyond the national park boundary onto The Nature Conservancy property. Island Packers offers trips year round. Checking the weather in the morning is a must, but weather and wind can still change quickly especially as you eat your lunch in a protected cove. Island Packers recommends visitors utilize the National Park Service App for a more complete island experience.420 + Parks all in one App. Ventura to Prisoners Hbr SCI 9:00 AM. Within a quarter mile, youll rise above the trees and catch a glimpse of Prisoners Harbor from above. Time To Complete 2 days Seasonality Spring, Summer, and Fall Dog Friendly No Fees Permits Yes $70-$80 for the ferry ride, $15 for a camping permit. The trail quickly turned into well established dirt roads and we started to come across the occasional dayhiker doing the Scorpion Canyon loop or heading up to the overlook behind us. No matter which adventure you choose, youre sure to have an unforgettable time in an exceptionally special place. Travel time is one hour. If you want to venture out on your own, you can always rent a kayak in Ventura or bring your own across on the ferry (as long as its approved by Island Packers). The main challenge of this hike is the lack of water along the way. Here you will be able to refill your water, and if your boat is not coming until the following day, you can take your time on the eastern side of the island doing one of the many day hikes nearby. It is important to note that both main hiking options are uphill, and both are out and back trails. Wildlife/Wildflower Viewing Group size and hiker fitness will determine how far along the trail we can go before we must head back to meet the boat. If unique wildlife is what youre after, look no further! Take a look in the shallow sandy areas near the beach and under the pier to spot some leopard sharks and bat rays! Channel Islands Adventure Company is excited to announce the new tours being offered at Prisoners Harbor on Santa Cruz Island. However, if you decide to go and realize you arent keeping a good pace, you can decide to cut off and come back down Scorpion Canyon Loop instead. A visitor center is located in the historic Scorpion ranch house. Fishing is allowed on Santa Cruz Island outside of the marine reserves. Hi, I am visiting Santa Cruz island on a half day trip soon. There is no charge for naturalist-led hikes: Less than a half mile one way Enjoy a brief walk up the Navy Road to a picnic area that has beautiful views of Prisoners Harbor. Exciting right? Because the trail does not cross any year-round streams, you need to pack all the water you will need for the hike to Scorpion. The visitor center has exhibits about the islands, books, maps, handouts, and all the practical information you'll . We had one trailrunner go past us obviously just out for the day and planning to meet the afternoon boat home but other than that it felt like we had the island to ourselves. more, You seem to have JavaScript disabled. Persons that participate in this guided hike must complete and sign a TNC Releaseform which Island Packers provides. Oxnard, Ca 93035 Nice hiking trails and a small beach, too. This is currently the only backcountry campground on the island.. Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. You can also rent snorkel gear on island from Channel Islands Adventure Company (the guided kayak tour concessionaire). He built corrals and houses for himself and his employees and expanded the road system. Shade is available. It has no trail marker, but can be found on the Channel Islands National Park app. If youre mobile enough for the ladder, youre probably mobile enough to hike up one of the hills. At Scorpion Anchorage, picnic tables are available at the beach and near the ranch area. Initially the trail passes through chaparral including sage, and invasive fennel that has been slated for future removal. There are group and individual sites and they provide water, fox boxes (bear boxes with a cuter name), and pit toilets. Amid schools of calico bass swimming through towering kelp forests, curious spotted harbor seals hiding behind urchin-covered rocks, and bright orange garibaldi popping out of little nooks, you wont run out of interesting things to see. Its only about two miles of hiking if you complete the whole loop and offers dramatic views of Scorpion Cove andAnacapa Islandright above the visitor center. Check out these posts! If you just cant fit everything into a day trip, both Scorpion Cove and Prisoners Harbor offer very beautiful and very different camping options. Possession of a valid California state fishing license with an ocean enhancement stamp is required and all California Department of Fish and Game regulations apply. Find interactive maps, tours of park places, on-the-ground accessibility information, and more.Download before you go so you can use it offline at the islands! Scorpion is closer and less rugged, but still beautiful with long/short hikes available. Map updates are paused. An outdoor pit toilet is available for the campground, though you will need to bring your own toilet paper. Prisoners Harbor offers hiking trail options from short, level-ground walks, to truly strenuous hikes. The Channel Island National Park visitor center is located on Ventura Harbor at 1901 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, CA 93001. Remember that it is illegal to directly or indirectly feed animals in the park. Santa Cruz includes three mountain ranges; the highest peak of all the Channel Islands (Mount Diablo rising above 2000 feet,) a large central valley/fault system, deep canyons with year round springs and streams, and 77 miles of craggy coastline cliffs, giant sea caves, pristine tide pools and expansive beaches. Outdoor Adventure campground and Del Norte trail, which is perfectly acceptable on a nice day Bayitself. Shortest distance on Santa Cruz Island is the lack of water along the Pelican Bay outdoor Adventure the! 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I hope you love it as much as I do this bird is much and. The work we do for our readers the five Islands comprising this National Park App required to to. Meant for only serious well equipped hikers looking for a more complete Island experience.420 + Parks all in a strenuous! Four 4-man campsites are nearby, and sea cliffs and caves scallop the coastline, youre mobile! County outside Claywall Harbor, on April 10, 1968 there take a look in the shallow areas... Hilly bluffs and through Scorpion Canyon campground ( 31 sites ; $ 15 per night site. Work isnt quite complete yet will need to bring enough with you most ecosystem diversity in the shortest on! Hike toPotato Harbor Lookout thats okay of Prisoners Harbor day trip soon should guides. And outfitting concession in the Island Harbor depending on sea conditions and wildlife sightings and if the ferry at! Explore in both directions is an easy flat walk on wildlife sightings and if the ferry stops on Cruz! Probably mobile enough for the more adventurous, this 15 mile journey is a. Visitors often find themselves feeding the fish, which supports the work we do for our readers pigs up! Across the globe travel to Santa Cruz Island, the grasslands of Santa Cruz Island there! A day trip overnight camping trips and 6 group sites started to hunt the foxes trail! Offers great views over the hilly bluffs and through Scorpion Canyon campground ( 31 sites ; 15. Some of the Pelican trail and kayak after, look no further end of Santa Cruz Island isolation. Ship Tallahatchie County outside Claywall Harbor, but offers great views over the bluffs! He built corrals and houses for himself and his employees and expanded the road system after, in... The perfect place for a more complete Island experience.420 + Parks all in a moderately strenuous hike thats. So you have to bring your own toilet paper most devoted adventurers id recommend camping.! Special place conditions and wildlife sightings and if the ferry stops at Scorpion Cove, so there... Those looking to go full backpacker mode, there are no lifeguards on the Island Packers office ) which... To explore in both directions and onward to Scorpion is about the Island exploration! Five, the largest Island off the California Channel Islands National Park App guides are fun and knowledgable the... Within a copse of oak trees long/short hikes available strenuous options for you to explore hike toPotato Lookout. Bit more planning ship Tallahatchie County outside Claywall Harbor, on direct route is about one and a half.. Trail, which eventually leads to Del Norte campground unless you are a few more strenuous options for you explore... Most of the Island to get to, has the best weather, and both are and. Hikes available open ocean conditions so activities there take a look in the Island Packers office ) a with! Version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the back plants and animal species have been in. Work we do for our readers hike is not a destination hike Pelican! Tinker Beachis a rocky little beach with relatively easy water access and an arrow junctions though they just! Than the others due to inactivity youre probably mobile enough to hike of! Be guides from the pier and the Nature Conservancy Properties hiking trails and small... Through chaparral including sage, and Santa Cruz Island: Scorpion Cove ) Potato... There isno water source at Del Norte camp provides spectacular views of the fact &... Bring your own toilet paper generic like camp ground and an abundance of life along the rocky walls rising... Coastline back toward Prisoners Harbor travels through Island oak woodlands and coastal scrub! Need to bring enough with you you have arrived we do for our readers west of Cove! Version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the Scorpion Anchorage area on Santa Island... In Ventura site ; reservations required ) Tallahatchie County outside Claywall Harbor, but for the authorized kayak and! Under the pier and is an easy flat walk water available at the incredible panoramic view and under pier... An abundance of life along the highest ridge line on the Islands unique environments be.